Les chrysanthèmes chevelues (pot à pharmacie)
Oil, ink and gouache on silk, signed lower left, titled on reverse
66 x 39.5 cm - 26 x 15 1/2 in.
A timeless exercise, the still life has always been a favourite with artists. Gathering different varieties of flowers but also fruits or vegetables, it allows the artist to express his singularity. Throughout his career, Lê Phổ has brilliantly illustrated himself by the finesse and accuracy of his still lifes. The hair chrysanthemums (medicine jar) stands out because of the choice of the vase. The Albarello vase, used as a medicine jar, appeared in Florence in the 15th century. Used by apothecaries, it was used to store ointments and medicinal plants. This slightly concave cylindrical pot often has a free field to indicate the plants contained. The vase represented by Lê Phổ is made of earthenware and bears the episcopal coat of arms, as indicated by the number of pompons represented.
While still lifes are recurrent in the work of Lê Phổ, the choice of a typically European vase is more unusual and contrasts delicately with the use of silk, characteristic of Asian culture. The autumnal or even wintry floral composition of chrysanthemums, winter jasmine, Crocosmia Lucifer and dried flowers provides a cheerful palette in yellow and red tones. The choice of chrysanthemums is not insignificant and recalls the artist’s Asian origins. Evoking calm, nobility of spirit and longevity, these flowers have a particular symbolism. Their yellow petals recall power and royalty. The colour of gold underlines power and prosperity. By mixing different Asian and European influences, Lê Phổ renews the classic genre of still life, bringing a multicultural vision combined with a remarkable softness.
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